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Battiston began his career at lower league club Talange (1966–1973), before he was spotted and purchased by FC Metz (1973–1980). After seven years at that club, he moved to Saint-Etienne (1980–1983) for three years, where they won the 1981 Division 1 title, before moving to Bordeaux (1983–1987), where they won the 1984, 1985 and 1987 league titles and two Coupe de France. Battiston then moved on to Monaco (1987–1989), where they won the 1988 league title, before he returned to Bordeaux (1989–1991).

His professional career lasted 18 seasons. Twenty-five years after his retirement, he remained in the top ten of players with the most appearances in League 1, occupying the third spot for non-goalkeepers.[2]

Battiston is particularly remembered for the 1982 FIFA World Cup semi final in Seville, when France faced West Germany. He came off the bench in the second half, and after ten minutes of play, following a through ball by Platini, Battiston was clear through the German defence racing towards goal. The German goalkeeper, Harald Schumacher, raced towards Battiston as the Frenchman took the shot, missing the goal. Schumacher leapt into the air, twisting his body and colliding with Battiston. In the process Schumacher's hip hit the Frenchman's face. Battiston, clattered, fell to the ground unconscious, with damaged vertebrae and teeth knocked out, later slipping into a coma. Emergency medics had to administer oxygen on the pitch.[3]Michel Platini later said that he thought that Battiston was dead, because "he had no pulse and looked pale".[4]

The Dutch referee Charles Corver did not give a foul, let alone send Schumacher off. Schumacher then proceeded to take the goal-kick and play resumed. After winning the game, the goalkeeper caused more controversy when he was told that Battiston had lost two teeth, and replied: "If that's all that's wrong with him, I'll pay him the crowns."[5]

Schumacher later apologised in person to Battiston, and the apology was accepted by Battiston.
In his autobiography, Anpfiff, published a couple of years later, Schumacher said the reason he did not go over to check on Battiston's condition was because a number of French players were standing around Battiston and making threatening gestures in his direction.

Battiston's paternal grandfather was Italian from Veneto.[6] His uncle Raymond Battiston (born 1924) played for FC Metz between 1945 and 1953. He has two sons.[7][8]

After his retirement, Battiston joined the Bordeaux staff. He has held various positions, including sporting director, youth and reserve team coach and head of the youth academy.[9] Under his leadership, the academy has produced players such as Marouane Chamakh, Rio Mavuba and Marc Planus.[10]